Alcohol and Drugs

Please note that patients arriving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can risk not being seen for their appointment.

Use of Accident & Emergency Department

A trip to accident and emergency (A&E) should be a last resort, as A&E should only be used in real emergencies. Going straight to A&E can put the emergency services and hospitals under added pressure, and unnecessary use of the service could prevent someone whose condition is more serious from getting treatment. You should think carefully whether or not your condition/illness is an emergency, as you may be preventing others with life threatening conditions from getting immediate care.

Calling 999 for an ambulance does not mean that you will be seen quicker when you arrive at A&E. All patients are seen on the basis of medical need.

A&E is not an alternative to your GP. It is not appropriate to go to A&E simply because your doctor cannot see you immediately – ring NHS Direct for nurse advice on 0845 46 47.